Story: Mildred Ndum Wung Kum and Felicitas Ika
Picture: New Monsignors holding appointment letters
The honorific title conferred on them by Pope Francis was proclaimed by Andrew Nkea, Archbishop of Bamenda on 6th December 2022 at Our Lady of Fatima Queen of Peace Shrine, Abangoh, Bamenda. He broke the news of the newly appointed monsignors at Abangoh where Christians were gathered for a Eucharistic celebration to mark the end of “the Marian Year” declared by Pope Francis to run from December 8th 2021 to December 8th 2022.
The Archbishop announced to the Christian Community gathered that, Pope Francis has raised the five to the rank of monsignors.
Christians screamed in joy as a bull was read pronouncing new Monsignors in the Archdiocese of Bamenda. The reading of the bull was followed by the singing of the Gloria during which Christians sang in jubilation of the news.
Archbishop Andrew said the bull elevating the five Priests to Monsignors would be read once again at various parishes where the priests work.
Being monsignors in accordance with Roman Catholic etiquette, they shall wear cassocks that have purple buttons with a purple sash as a symbol of their title.
Contentment is the word that best describes the mood of the new monsignors.
“I feel humbled and in all humility render profound gratitude to Almighty God, to His Holiness Pope Francis and very special thanks to my Bishop, Archbishop Nkea for considering me; an unworthy servant for this appointment. I pray God to grant me the necessary virtues to discharge my priestly duties with love” Father Michael Kintang told Cameroon Infotrend shortly after the event.
In the Catholic Church, a monsignor is a title bestowed on a priest who has distinguished himself by exceptional service to the church and has been honored by the Pope for his service to the church. The title of monsignor is conferred on a priest who is at least 65years old
Story: Felicitas Ika, Mildred Ndum Wung Kum